Article

Women are disproportionately affected by musculoskeletal disorders.
Parous women seem to be at a particularly elevated risk for structural and
functional changes in the lower limbs. The combination of increased weight on the
joints with potentially greater laxity during pregnancy could lead to permanent
structural changes in the feet. Although arches may become lax during pregnancy,
it is unknown whether the changes persist. The objective of this study was to
determine whether arch height loss persists postpartum. DESIGN: Forty-nine women
completed this longitudinal study. Static and dynamic arch measurements were
collected in the first trimester and at 19 wks postpartum.
Linear mixed models
were used to determine whether outcome measures significantly changed overall or
by parity. RESULTS: Arch height and rigidity indices significantly decreased,
with concomitant increases in foot length and arch drop. The first pregnancy
accounted for the reduction in arch rigidity and the increases in foot length and
arch drop. No changes were detected in the center of pressure excursion index.
CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy seems to be associated with a permanent loss of arch
height, and the first pregnancy may be the most significant. These changes in the
feet could contribute to the increased risk for musculoskeletal disorders in
women. Further research should assess the efficacy of rehabilitative
interventions for prevention of pregnancy-related arch drop.

Langue : ANGLAIS